Below we have listed some facts from the 7 months Marrianne spent in the Osborn Spinal Unit. Unfortunately these facts are common in most high level spinal injuries.  

• During the period that Marrianne had to rely on a ventilator, she was unable to speak. A clicking sound, made with the tongue, was her only way to attract attention,  (she could move no other part of her body).
• Whilst in hospital Marrianne contracted the bug ‘MRSA’.
• Marrianne’s diaphragm now only works to 50% of its capacity, which causes shortness of breath. It also leaves Marrianne with the inability to cough or sneeze properly.
• For several weeks after the accident, a suction machine was used to withdraw necessary secretions. A long tube was inserted into Marrianne’s throat and down into her chest to remove mucus. At difficult times, this procedure was literally carried out every few minutes.
• Marrianne’s stomach couldn’t tolerate food or drink for many weeks after her accident.
• Once this period had passed, Marrianne’s diet consisted of “soft foods”, which she was fed whilst lying flat on her back.
• Marrianne sustained four pressure sores whilst in hospital, two of which required surgery.
• Marrianne’s body temperature cannot be regulated, resulting in both hot and cold flushes. In turn, this contributes to excessive perspiration.
• Marrianne’s initial medication and trauma caused severe hallucinations.
• Whilst bed ridden in hospital, a team of nurses had to reposition Marrianne constantly to avoid further pressure sores.
• Marrianne is constantly at risk from a potential life threatening condition called Autonomic dysreflexia.
• Since leaving hospital, Marrianne requires 24-hour care and has had to employ her own team. A team that has had to integrate into Marrianne’s life. A team that brings Marrianne the pressures of being an employer.
• For several months Marrianne had to wear a ‘binder’; a corset like item worn to help prevent dizziness.
• It takes Marrianne an average of 2½ hours to get up each morning. This is due to the daily procedure she has to endure; a procedure that involves bowel care from the district nurse, stretching from her care team and the added time ‘assisted’ washing and dressing takes.
• Pressure relief is required every hour Marrianne is in her wheelchair. This involves her care team ensuring her posterior is lifted from the seat for a brief period.
• Marrianne’s injury means that she has lost all balance; something as simple as sitting up without support is impossible.
• Marrianne relies on a catheter to empty her bladder; a catheter that has to be changed regularly to avoid infection.
• Regular muscle spasms cause Marrianne much pain, stress and embarrassment. The slightest touch can cause the legs to lock out straight. During the night, spasms mean that Marrianne seldom gets a good nights sleep.
• Marrianne relies on others for most things, large or small, including; cleaning her teeth, brushing her hair, washing, dressing, scratching an itch!, wiping her nose, womens ‘personal’ care, eating & drinking, texting….…the list goes on.

There is far more to a spinal injury than most people will ever know. Having to use a wheelchair is only the tip of the iceberg.